CVE-2013-4258 in Network Audio System
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in the osLogMsg function in server/os/aulog.c in Network Audio System (NAS) 1.9.3 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in unspecified vectors, related to syslog.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2022
The CVE-2013-4258 vulnerability represents a critical format string flaw within the Network Audio System NAS 1.9.3 software, specifically within the osLogMsg function located in server/os/aulog.c. This vulnerability exposes the system to remote exploitation where attackers can manipulate format specifiers to trigger unintended behavior in the logging mechanism. The flaw occurs when the system processes log messages containing format string directives, which are typically used to control output formatting but become dangerous when user-controlled data is passed directly into the logging function without proper sanitization. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-134 as "Use of Externally-Controlled Format String" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it can enable arbitrary code execution when exploited properly.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to craft malicious input that gets processed through the osLogMsg function, potentially causing the application to crash or behave unpredictably. When format specifiers are improperly handled, they can lead to memory corruption, stack smashing, or information disclosure attacks. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple denial of service as it can potentially allow remote code execution, making it particularly dangerous for networked audio systems that may be exposed to untrusted networks. The unspecified vectors suggest that multiple attack surfaces within the NAS system could be leveraged to trigger this vulnerability, including network protocols or user input mechanisms that ultimately funnel data through the affected logging function.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-4258 is significant for organizations relying on NAS 1.9.3 for audio services, as it creates a potential pathway for unauthorized system compromise. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability to crash audio servers, potentially disrupting audio services in enterprise environments, educational institutions, or media production facilities. The possibility of arbitrary code execution means that successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install backdoors, exfiltrate data, or use the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. This vulnerability particularly affects systems where NAS services are exposed to public networks or where insufficient network segmentation exists between trusted and untrusted zones.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-4258 should prioritize immediate patching of affected NAS installations with versions that properly sanitize format string parameters before processing them. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to NAS services and ensure that only trusted systems can communicate with audio servers. Input validation and sanitization measures should be strengthened to prevent user-controllable data from reaching logging functions without proper parameter handling. Additionally, system monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual logging patterns or potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in OWASP Top 10 and CERT/CC secure coding guidelines, particularly regarding proper handling of user input in logging and output functions. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify exploitation attempts targeting format string vulnerabilities and maintain regular security assessments to identify similar issues in other components of their audio infrastructure.